Commons Sense

Hansard-based summaries and metrics

<-- Back to proposed bills

Defence funding update

30 June 2026

Proposing MP
Rachel Reeves Lab
Leeds West
Type
Written Ministerial Statement
Department
Treasury
View on Parliament.uk -->
TAGS
Defence

At a Glance

Issue Summary

The Chancellor announces additional funding for the Defence Investment Plan to enhance national security and military capability.

Action Requested

The government is committing an additional £15 billion over four years (2026-27 to 2029-30) for defence, increasing total spending to £60 billion more than previously planned. This funding will support various initiatives including drone warfare, RAF aircraft development, munitions and weapons investment, space capabilities, and AI-driven procurement improvements.

Key Facts

  • The government will spend over £60 billion more on defence between 2026-27 and 2029-30 than previously planned.
  • Defence spending will reach 2.7% of GDP from 2027-28 onwards, solidifying the UK as NATO’s third-largest spender after the US and Germany.
  • The UK aims to increase defence spending to 3% of GDP in the next Parliament and achieve 3.5% by 2035.
  • £15 billion will be invested into drones and autonomous systems, including £8.6 billion for RAF aircraft under the Global Combat Air Programme.
  • The Defence Investment Plan totals £298 billion over four years, funded through reprioritising public spending across government departments.
▸ Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy